Recommendations for off the beaten path destinations in the fall?

Hi, I’m (28F) planning my first trip to Japan for 2 weeks in early to mid November 2025. I’ll be going solo, plan to fly in at Haneda.

I’m looking for recommendations for less touristy, off the beaten path destinations reachable with public transportation from Tokyo. I’m open to staying a few nights, day trips are also good. I can speak Japanese. I can also read, I’m just slow at it (thank goodness Google Lens exists).

I’m not big on crowds and the big city normally, so I thought I would balance the typical touristy stuff in Tokyo with more relaxed trips outside of it. I’m not sure yet if I’ll venture down to Kyoto or save it and the Kansai area for a future trip.

I’m interested in enjoying some great autumn views, culture, day to day life, food (I’m a huge foodie), historic sights.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: Thank you for all of the recs!

by yuemuffin